This project is part of Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad’s (KTMB) programme of modernisation to electrify and double-track the western line of the Malaysian railway, enabling trains to run at a maximum speed of 160 km/h.

This contract was for the double-tracking of the existing line between Ipoh and Rawang north of Kuala Lumpur. KTMB plans to introduce a rapid intercity service between Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur (16 services ultimately increasing to 32 services a day), which will cut the rail journey time to 2.5 hours.

The project involved the construction of a new narrow gauge (1000mm) track length of 179km, upgrading of the parallel existing line, and upgrading yards and depots tracks of approximately 60km. Some sections of the new track were located adjacent to the existing track, whilst at other sections both tracks of the railway were realigned to a more suitable area. Existing train services were maintained through out the construction period.

In a joint-venture with Emrail, Leighton was initially contracted with DRB-Hicom Berhad and subsequently with UEM Builders Sdn Bhd. Emrail - Leighton’s scope commenced following earthworks and track formation by others and included the following:

Temporary realignment in areas of interface between existing and new tracks

Removal of ballast and track panel on the existing tracks

Supply and placement of top and bottom ballast; approximately 1,895,000 tonnes